AN ESTABLISHED dog playcare business is looking to continue operating from a site near Thorntonloch.

Harry’s Hounding Around has applied to East Lothian Council for retrospective planning permission for the change of use from agricultural land to a dog exercise park and dog day care business.

The site, south of the A1 and Torness Power Station, provides the dogs with “a generous amount of open space”.

A supporting statement included with the application notes: “The site already has deer fencing which provides an additional barrier dividing the fields into separate areas where the dogs can run freely without disturbing wildlife or escaping onto nearby roads or the east coast railway line.

“The land already has a small stable building to the west of the site, a small shed to the south and a small timber outbuilding to the east of the site.

“The buildings have been part of the site for many years and have provided valuable shelter for the dogs during periods of inclement weather.

“There is no negative visual impact, and the existing buildings are entirely appropriate for a rural setting.”

The document goes on to note that, historically, three or four vehicle movements per day were expected at the site.

It is anticipated that the change of use “will not result in a substantial increase” and that “under no circumstances will customers ever be expected to drop off dogs at the site”.

A decision on the application is expected in mid-October.